12 hours at Great Sand Dunes National Park & Preserve

Sand dunes with snowy mountains in the background at sunset.

Experience the towering dunes, diverse ecosystems, and breathtaking scenery of Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve in just one day. Enjoy sandboarding and sledding on the dunes, short hikes through pine forests, and incredible dark skies at this remote Colorado park.

Duration
1 day
Perfect for
Adventurers, nature lovers, and families seeking a unique outdoor experience.
Highlights
Dune sledding, hiking, and stargazing under some of the darkest skies in the United States.
Morning

Enjoy the dunes

People observing exhibits in Great Sand Dunes visitor center.

Learn

Begin your day at the Great Sand Dunes Visitor Center. Learn about the park's unique geology, ecosystems, and cultural history through interactive exhibits and a short film.

Three kids sliding down a sand dune, mountains in the background, bright blue sky.

Experience the dunes

Hike in the dune field and experience the tallest dunes in North America. Rent a sandboard or sled from a nearby outfitter and slide down the dunes.

Midday

Picnicking and Trails

Two people hiking on a forest trail surrounded by green trees.
NPS Patrick Myers

Hike

For a shady escape, hike the Montville Nature Trail, a short 0.5-mile loop through a beautiful forested area with views of the dunes. Stop at the nearby Piñon Flats Campground or the Dunes Picnic Area for a scenic lunch location.

Group of people, including children, sitting outdoors near trees, listening to a speaker.
NPS Patrick Myers

Photography and ranger-led programs

Check in at the visitor center or call ahead to plan to attend a ranger-led program. Take advantage of the incredible scenery here to take some once-in-a-lifetime pictures in front of the dunes.

Evening

Sunset and stargazing

Vibrant sunset with orange and pink clouds over a dark landscape.

Sunset views

Head back to the dunes to witness a stunning sunset, as the sand appears to change colors with the fading light.

Starry night sky with the Milky Way over dark silhouetted mountains.

Learn about the park

Enjoy some of the darkest skies in North America at this International Dark Sky Park. If available, enjoy an evening ranger program at the Great Sand Dunes outdoor amphitheater.

People enjoying Medano Creek with mountains in the background.
NPS Patrick Myers
Optional add-on

Medano Creek Relaxation

If this seasonal creek is flowing, spend time wading and playing in its shallow waters.

Visit Smart

Start early

Sand temperatures are hotter in the afternoons, and there is the chance of severe weather. Begin early to make the most of your trip.

Be prepared

Rent your sandboard or sled before entering the park. 

Gear up

Pack plenty of water, sunscreen, sunglasses, sturdy footwear, and layers for changing temperatures.

Leave no trace

Great Sand Dunes and the surrounding landscapes are significant to many Indigenous peoples. Visit with care and respect for the cultural and natural landscapes.

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